Print Syllabus

Syllabus

MP0004 Environmental Perception and Experience, 15.0 Credits

Miljöperception och upplevelse

Subjects

Environmental Psychology Environmental Psychology

Education cycle

Master’s level

Advanced study in the main field

Second cycle, has only first-cycle course/s as entry requirements
Master’s level (A1N)

Grading scale

Language

English

Prior knowledge

Knowledge equivalent to 120 credits and English 6

Objectives

The aim of the course is to provide the students with knowledge on theories of environmental perception and factors that affect it. Environmental perception refers to the subjective ways in which groups and individuals perceive and evaluate the environment, while at the same time being an active part of it. The course deals with all aspects of environmental experiencing, i.e. perception, cognition and appraisal. Focus is on visual perception, although other senses will be considered as well. Appropriate research methods are introduced.

After completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• describe and discuss relevant theoretical perspectives and concepts regarding the effects of outdoor environments on people

• analyse people’s different reactions to outdoor environments depending on gender, age, social situation, cultural context, mood, disability, or health

• analyse outdoor environments regarding structure, patterns, colour and other physical properties that may affect people’s perception and experience.

Content

The course is characterised by studies of effects of and experiences in the physical outdoor environment. Literature studies and exercises will provide training in the ability to investigate and analyse people’s fundamental perceptions, experience, and preferences in relation to the landscape and its texture, structure and other potentially relevant properties. Theoretical studies are based on literature in environmental psychology and related disciplines. Students do most of their tasks from a distance, but campus meetings are arranged, some of which are mandatory. Mandatory exercises are presented orally and as short papers. Literature seminars are mandatory, as well as a final exam.

Grading form

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Formats and requirements for examination

Participation in compulsory elements. Approved participation in seminars. Successful completion of exam and exercises.

• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.
• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.
• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.
• For the examination of a degree project (independent project), the examiner may also allow the student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Transitional provisions

• Exams: At least three retake sessions (renewed exams) will be offered within two years of the decision to discontinue the course. • Compulsory components: At least one opportunity for a retake session will be offered within two years of the decision to discontinue the course.

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Additional information

The course is given as a distance course at 50% speed.

Basic skills in Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Psychology, Pedagogy, or Environmental Science are recommended.